The Statist and the History Man

The next chapter of the book discusses the first aspect of Putin's personality-his view of himself as a "man of the state" or a "statist". This means that he sees himself as someone who is dedicated to the restoration of the Russian state and claims that the mission of his presidency is to reunite the Russian people through the distinguished values that make them differ from others, ideas that were "distinctly Russian", not just universal values like personal freedoms and rights. He called these values that make up the core of Russian belief the "Russian Idea" and these include patriotism, collectivism, solidarity, and lastly "derzhavnost" which is the belief that Russia's destiny is to always be a powerful entity that "exerts its influence abroad".

By latching onto these deals, Putin establishes himself as someone who pledges his loyalty not to a political party, but rather to the state itself and to restoring the state to its former glory and strength above all. This self presentation is rather common among those with a background in the KGB like Putin has. The book goes on to discuss the role of statists in Russia and how they have historically been known as the intelligent upper class that saw themselves as representing citizens in opposition to the tsarist economic and political system. In the Soviet era, the term was used to refer to jobs like doctors, engineers, teachers, scientists, researchers, writers, and artists that were held in high esteem in the Marxian social classification.

The authors also address the second role that Putin plays in his leadership-that of "The History Man", meaning he understands the important role that history can play in establishing legitimacy and in accomplishing goals. It is obvious to see this side of him in his policies as he often searches for ways to establish connections to Russia's past by participating in cultural renovation projects, his embracing of Russian Orthodoxy, and attempting to bring Russia back to a sovereign and historically rooted political system that is not highly democratic.

Putin's Inauguration Ceremony with Involvement from the Russian Orthodox Church

By understanding two of these key personality traits, it becomes easier to recognize the goals and intentions of Vladimir Putin and to put into perspective some of the decisions he makes and his public policy. Thanks for reading!